March is considered by many to be Irish Heritage month. With the yearly celebration of St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th, leagues of citizens of Irish descent will celebrate St. Patrick’s feast day, while wearing green and declaring their Celtic pride. While Ireland isn’t necessarily known for its food, it is certainly known for its rich culture and music. For anyone of Irish descent, and anyone claiming to be Irish for a day, here is the 2012 St. Patrick’s Day Playlist loaded with Irish and Irish-American musical acts, and a few others with a distinctly Irish flair.
“The Light of a Fading Star” by Flogging Molly
A high energy song with a distinct Irish tone is “The Light of a Fading Star” by Flogging Molly. Add this song to any St. Patrick’s party playlist, and prepare to see the mood of your guests improve as they dance and sing along.
“Boys from the County Hell” by The Pogues
Another song that is sure to improve your St. Patrick’s Day party is “Boys from the County Hell.” Listen along; I dare you not to tap your foot.
“Sunday Bloody Sunday” by U2
A song that many will recognize is “Sunday Bloody Sunday” by U2. Seeing as how U2 is headed up by Irish musician Bono, (born Paul David Hewson), “Sunday Bloody Sunday” seemed an appropriate addition. This is a song that is sure to get people off their chairs and dancing at any St. Patrick’s Day party.
“Devil’s Spoke” by Laura Marling
Although Laura Marling is from the U.K., not Ireland, her song “Devil’s Spoke” has an Irish flair to it. Fast moving with background banjo instrumentals, “Devil’s Spoke” is begging to be step-danced to.
“When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” by Dennis Morgan
A St. Patrick’s Day classic “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” was best sung by Dennis Morgan. After listening to this tune, your Irish pride should triple in the matter of a minute flat.
“I’m Shipping Up to Boston” by Dropkick Murphys
Another song that shouldn’t be missed on St. Patrick’s Day is “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” by Irish punk band Dropkick Murphys. If you get through this song without a sense of rebellion rising in your belly, you might want to check your pulse.
“Will You Remember?” by The Cranberries
Another song that will fit in well at just about any St. Patrick’s Day party is “Will You Remember?” by The Cranberries. From the instrumentals to the distinct accent, “Will You Remember” has major Irish flair.
“The Irish Rover” by The Pogues with The Dubliners
“The Irish Rover” will have everyone at your St. Patrick’s Day party in the mood for dancing and celebrating. The best version of this song that I’ve ever heard was performed by The Dubliners with The Pogues. You simply can’t get any better than that.
“Finnegan’s Wake” by Brobdingnagian Bards
An Irish tune that is sure to have foots tapping is “Finnegan’s Wake” by the Brobdingnagian Bards. This song has a distinct Irish tone, with a fast tempo and lyrics that tell a story. If you’re throwing a St. Patrick’s Day party, don’t leave the Brobdingnagian Bards off your playlist.
“Danny Boy” by The Irish Tenors
This beautiful Irish classic is best sung by the Irish tenors, themselves. Save this song for the end of the night, as your guests may be reduced to tears at its meaning. Regardless, don’t skip this amazing tune, as it fills the heart with pride just listening to it.
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